Once on a time, when Brahmadatta was king of Benares, the Bodhisatta was born in a a brahmin family in a village. When he came of age, he was educated at Takkasila; then, renouncing the world he became a recluse, cultivated the Faculties and the Attainments, and dwelt in the region of Himalayas, living upon wild roots and fruits which was collected while going and coming back.

At the end of his walk lived a Mongoose in an ant heap; and nearby a Snake lived in a hollow tree. These two, Snake and Mongoose, were perpetually quarreling. The Bodhisatta preached to them the misery of quarrels and the blessing of peace, and reconciled the two together, saying, “You ought to cease your quarrelling and live together at one.”

When the Serpent has gone away, the Mongoose lay with his head out of the hole in his ant hill, and his mouth open, and thus fell asleep, heavily drawing his breath in and out. The Bodhisatta saw him sleeping there, and asking him, “Why? what are you afraid of?”

The Mongoose, “Father! never despise a former enemy, but always suspect him. A fear that springs from unfeared things uproots and makes an end.

The Bodhisatta replied, “Fear not! I have persuaded the Snake to do no harm; trust him.” With this advice, he proceeded to cultivate the Four Excellences, and set his face toward Brahma’s heaven. And the others too passed away to fare hereafter according to their deeds.